Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOH) Approval for Advertising
Federal Regulatory Clearance for Healthcare & Medical Advertising
Advertising related to healthcare products, pharmaceuticals, supplements, and medical services in Dubai and across the UAE is regulated by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOH). MOH approval is mandatory to ensure that all health-related advertising complies with federal medical laws, patient safety standards, and ethical communication practices.
MOH approvals may apply alongside local authorities such as DHA, depending on the product type, campaign scope, and geographic coverage.
At OAU, we help healthcare and wellness brands plan and execute MOH-compliant outdoor advertising campaigns with full regulatory alignment.
What Is MOH Advertising Approval?
MOH advertising approval is a federal clearance required for advertisements promoting:
- Pharmaceuticals and prescription medicines
- Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
- Health supplements and vitamins
- Medical devices and equipment
- Wellness products with health or medical claims
Any public-facing advertisement making medical, health, or therapeutic claims must obtain MOH approval before publication.
Why MOH Approval Matters for Outdoor Advertising
Healthcare advertising is one of the most regulated sectors in the UAE. MOH approval ensures:
- Legal authorization across Dubai and the UAE
- Protection from ad takedowns or penalties
- Consumer trust and brand credibility
- Eligibility for premium outdoor advertising locations
Advertising without MOH approval can lead to serious regulatory and reputational consequences.
How OAU Supports MOH-Compliant Advertising
At OAU, we assist healthcare brands by:
- Reviewing creatives for MOH compliance readiness
- Coordinating with media owners on approval workflows
- Aligning outdoor formats with healthcare regulations
- Executing campaigns only after MOH clearance
Our experience with regulated healthcare advertising ensures smooth approvals and timely campaign execution.
When Is MOH Approval Required?
MOH approval is required when advertising:
- Pharmaceutical and medical products across the UAE
- Supplements and wellness products with health benefits
- Medical devices or diagnostic tools
- National or multi-emirate healthcare campaigns
- Health-related offers or promotions
In Dubai, some campaigns may require both MOH and DHA approvals, depending on the advertiser and media format.
Advertising Formats Requiring MOH Approval
MOH approval applies to most advertising formats, including:
- Billboards and large-format hoardings
- Digital outdoor screens and LED displays
- Taxi, metro, and transit advertising
- Print and digital media advertising
- Mall media and outdoor signage
- Event branding and healthcare exhibitions
Any medium communicating healthcare-related information to the public must be approved.
FAQ – Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOH) Advertising Approval
What is MOH approval for advertising?
MOH approval is mandatory federal authorization for healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical product advertising in the UAE.
Which products require MOH approval?
Medicines, supplements, medical devices, and wellness products with health claims require MOH approval.
Is MOH approval required for outdoor advertising?
Yes. Billboards, digital screens, taxi ads, and transit media promoting health products require MOH approval.
Does MOH approval apply only to Dubai?
No. MOH approval applies across the UAE at the federal level.
Can a campaign require both MOH and DHA approval?
Yes. Some Dubai-based healthcare campaigns require approvals from both authorities.
Are supplements and vitamins regulated?
Yes. Supplements and vitamins must be approved before advertising.
Can prescription medicines be advertised?
Direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription medicines is generally restricted.
Are health claims strictly reviewed?
Yes. All claims must be evidence-based and approved.
Can ads run without MOH approval?
No. Unauthorized healthcare advertising may be removed and penalized.
How long does MOH approval take?
Timelines vary depending on product type and claim complexity.